Diarra Kilpatrick
Diarra Kilpatrick

ABC is relaunching a free streaming service that will be home to both classic series, as well as new content made specifically for it. To be called ABCd (ABC digital), the service will include new shows like “Boondoggle,” starring Ty Burrell from “Modern Family,” and comedian Iliza Shlesinger’s “Forever 31.”

Viola Davis
Viola Davis

There are currently 40 additional series coming down the pipeline that will eventually be added to the mix, the network announced, including “American Koko,” which hails from Diarra Kilpatrick, who will star in it as well, with Viola Davis producing through her JuVee Productions shingle, which she runs with her husband, Julius Tennon.

“American Koko” will follow “a satirical agency that solves sticky racial situations.”

Viola Davis had this to say about the series and Kilpatrick: “She has a unique voice that transcends her generation. ‘American Koko’ is brutally honest about race relations but avoids the trap of being an indictment. Rather it is a bold, brave cultural reveal handled with sensitivity, vulnerability, honesty and humor. JuVee Productions continues our mission to be inclusive and this project fits perfectly with our vision.”



Kilpatrick, who appeared in “Lila and Eve” (2015) which stars Viola Davis, added: “To be in business with the artist-friendly executives at ABC and to have the incredible guidance of Viola Davis and the team at JuVee on ‘American Koko’ is a dream come true… I’ve always wanted to create and perform across mediums. And I’m excited for people to hear my voice and get to know me as a storyteller and an artist.”

“American Koko” was originally produced for her YouTube channel.

Kilpatrick, who’s also a playwright, was selected for the 2015 WGA Writer’s Access Program for her drama pilot “The Dirty Dozen.” She has worked as a staff writer for NBC’s “Mysteries of Laura,” and has appeared on series like “Southland,” “Major Crimes,” and more. She is also currently developing a project for Amazon Studios with Mark Gordon producing, which she will write and star in as well.

Kilpatrick is repped by CAA.